Enhancing decision‐making in higher education: Exploring the integration of ChatGPT and data visualization tools in data analysis

Abstract This chapter explores the potential of integrating conversational AI tools such as ChatGPT with data visualization (DV) tools such as Power BI in higher education settings. A brief history of chatbots is summarized and challenges and opportunities in higher education are outlined. The highlights include AI's prospects for enhancing data‐informed decision‐making while needing safeguards to mitigate risks. Through a pioneering exercise, we integrated ChatGPT's conversational capabilities with Power BI's interface via API and tested functionality. Suggestions for good practice and implications for higher education are discussed. Practical Takeaways The importance of data security, recognizing current limitations in accuracy, and good practices for integrating DV tools with ChatGPT. The exercise shows that AI tools have the potential to aid higher education leaders, but still face many challenges, and human judgment remains essential. Integration of ChatGPT with Power BI in higher education aims to enable natural language interaction with data visualizations, facilitating dynamic discussions and insights for leaders. Considerations include data security protocols, technical challenges, financial constraints, and the potential and limitations of AI. Technical challenges include limitations in ChatGPT's interpretation of complex queries, API performance issues, and data processing inefficiencies. Affordability of enterprise AI versions poses a barrier to adoption for institutions with budget constraints despite recognizing potential benefits. ChatGPT represents a significant advancement in AI capabilities but has limitations, including generating inaccurate information and lacking awareness of its limitations. Human oversight and critical evaluation are crucial in navigating the evolving AI landscape and leveraging its benefits effectively while mitigating risks.